E3 Cancelled Due to Coronavirus Fears

The COVID-19 disease has taken down one of the biggest gaming events of the year

The 2020 edition of E3 has been officially cancelled amid fears of public health concerns caused by the potential spread of the COVID-19 disease AKA the Coronavirus.

The Entertainment Software Association, organizers of the event, formally announced the disappointing news in a statement earlier today:

“After careful consultation with our member companies regarding the health and safety of everyone in our industry–our fans, our employees, our exhibitors and our longtime E3 partners–we have made the difficult decision to cancel E3 2020, scheduled for June 9-11 in Los Angeles.

Following increased and overwhelming concerns about the COVID-19 virus, we felt this was the best way to proceed during such an unprecedented global situation. We are very disappointed that we are unable to hold this event for our fans and supporters. But we know it’s the right decision based on the information we have today.

We are also exploring options with our members to coordinate an online experience to showcase industry announcements and news in June 2020.

We look forward to bringing you E3 2021 as a reimagined event that brings fans, media and the industry together in a showcase that celebrates the global video game industry.”

Rumors had been swirling since last week about the show closing it doors for this year, but as the statement reads, it seems plans are to have E3 represented in some capacity as an online event in lieu of an actual convention. Both attendees and exhibitors who prepaid for admission or booths will be contacted about “full refunds”.